Complementary and alternative medicine use in the Amish.

Area of Science:

• Integrative Medicine
• Public Health
• Sociology

Background:

• The Amish population traditionally utilizes non-mainstream medical practices.
• Understanding complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use within this demographic is crucial for public health.
• Previous research on CAM utilization in specific cultural groups like the Amish is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and patterns of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) utilization among Amish women.
• To identify specific types of CAM therapies commonly used by this population.
• To inform healthcare providers about potential CAM-related risks in Amish women.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to 66 Amish women to gather data on their CAM usage.
• Data collected included the types of CAM therapies used and specific herbal remedies employed.
• The study focused on identifying trends in non-mainstream medicine use within the Amish community.

Main Results:

• 36% of surveyed Amish women reported using at least one form of CAM.
• The most frequently reported CAM therapies included diet and nutrition programs, herbal therapies, and chiropractic medicine.
• Ten pregnant Amish women specifically reported using herbal remedies such as echinacea, St. John's Wort, red clover, garlic, and ginseng.

Conclusions:

• The findings underscore the significant use of CAM, particularly herbal therapies, among Amish women.
• There is a critical need to address the potential adverse effects associated with herbal therapies in this population.
• Healthcare providers should be aware of and discuss CAM use with Amish patients to ensure safe and effective care.